CERVICAL CANCER: IMPORTANCE OF THE POPE NICHOLAS EXAM

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer is a preventable disease of great impact on public health. The Pap smear is an effective strategy for the early detection of precursor lesions, allowing timely interventions and increasing the chances of cure. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the importance of the Pap test in the prevention of cervical cancer and in the promotion of female health, with a special focus on nursing performance. METHODOLOGY: This is a descriptive bibliographic review. Studies published between 2019 and 2024, available in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), were analyzed in order to elucidate the relevance of the Pap test in the prevention of cervical cancer and the role of nursing in this context. The selection of articles used specific descriptors related to prevention, screening and health education, prioritizing original articles that addressed such themes. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Studies highlight Pap smear as an essential tool in the early detection of precursor lesions of cervical cancer, proven effective in reducing morbidity and mortality. Low adherence to the exam, however, is multifactorial, including lack of information, fear, shame, sociocultural barriers and access difficulties. Nursing is crucial in this scenario, working in health education, promoting self-care and establishing bonds of trust. Strategies such as lectures, humanized services and community actions, in addition to welcoming and qualified listening, increase the coverage and trust of users. It is essential, therefore, to invest in the training and awareness of nurses to ensure effective and humanized assistance to women's health. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the Pap test is indispensable in the prevention of cervical cancer, and Nursing plays a prominent role in health education, welcoming and promoting women's health, ensuring comprehensive and humanized care.